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Say, Mean, Matter



Summary
This is a note-taking technique that students utilize in their exploration of a text. Forcing students to think about the literal meaning and the significance, Say, Mean, Matter can also be utilized to construct argument-based paragraphs.

Teaching and Learning Purposes:
  • To prepare students to read and write about a text
  • To help students engage with a primary source at increasingly deeper levels of understanding

Primary source: The Declaration of Independence

Remember: This pedagogy works with ANY text and ANY content

Possible Variations
  1. Students could number their responses in each column. Each of the columns could be used at different times in the lesson. For example, the Say and Mean columns could be completed at the beginning of the lesson and the Matter column could be used later in the lesson. These columns could be completed individually, in small groups, or with the whole class.
  2. Ask students to select two quotes to support an argument. Using Say, Mean, Matter have students write a body paragraph for an essay. See page 40 of Civics and Citizenship.

Reflection
How might you adapt this pedagogy to use with YOUR content and YOUR students?


Say Mean Matter

Say

(Paraphrase, Summary or Quote)

Mean

Matter